Interpreting Intra-site Spatial Patterns in Seasonal Contexts

An Ethnoarchaeological Case Study from the Western Alps

Bibliographic Data

ID12426677
AuthorsFrancesco Carrer (0000-0003-4397-4502, University of York, corresponding author)
Year2015
Volume24
Issue2
Pages303-327
Publication date2015-12-07
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Archaeological Method and Theory (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1072-5369 • E-ISSN: 1573-7764
PublisherSpringer Science+Business Media (PUBLISHER • DE)
DOI10.1007/s10816-015-9268-5
PMID29266121
OpenAlexW2292036952
LanguageEN
Citations received30
References cited46

This paper deals with the ethnoarchaeological analysis of the spatial pattern of artefacts and ecofacts within two traditional pastoral huts (a dwelling and a seasonal dairy) in the uplands of Val Maudagna (Cuneo province, Italian western Alps). The composition of the ethnoarchaeological assemblages of the two huts was studied and compared; point pattern analysis was applied to identify spatial processes mirrored in the interactions between objects; Moran's I correlogram and empirical variogram were used to investigate the effects of trampling on the displacement of objects on the floor. The results were compared with information provided by the herder who still used the huts. The quantitative and ethnographical data enabled inferences to be made that can help in the interpretation of archaeological seasonal sites. The function of a seasonal site can be recognized, as can the impact of delayed curation on the composition of the assemblage and the importance of the intensity of occupation compared with the frequency of occupation. The spatial organization of activities is reflected in the spatial patterns of objects, with clearer identification of activity areas in intensively occupied sites, and there is evidence for the behaviour behind the spatial segregation of activities. Trampling is a crucial post-depositional factor in the displacement of artefacts and ecofacts, especially in non-intensively exploited sites. From a methodological point of view, this research is another example that highlights the importance of integrating quantitative methods (especially spatial analysis and geostatistical methods) and ethnoarchaeological data in order to improve the interpretation of archaeological sites and assemblages

Archaeology · Assemblage (archaeology · Ethnoarchaeology · Geography · Physical geography · Remote sensing · Spatial analysis · Spatial ecology · 3D Shape Modeling and Analysis · Land Use and Ecosystem Services · Point processes and geometric inequalities · Ecology · Geology

Tools

Open DOISci-HubOpen Access